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Neurogenetics of the Human Adenosine Receptor Genes: Genetic Structures and Involvement in Brain Diseases

Adenosine receptors are G-protein-coupled receptors involved in a wide range of physiological and pathological phenomena in most mammalian systems. All four receptors are widely expressed in the central nervous system, where they modulate neurotransmitter release and neuronal plasticity. A large number of gene association studies have shown that common genetic variants of the adenosine receptors (encoded by the ADORA1, ADORA2A, ADORA2B and ADORA3 genes) have a neuroprotective or neurodegenerative role in neurologic/psychiatric diseases. New genetic studies of rare variants and few novel associations with depression or epilepsy subtypes have recently been reported. Here, we review the literature on the genetics of adenosine receptors in neurologic and/or psychiatric diseases in humans, and discuss perspectives for further genetic research. We also provide an update on the genetic structures of the four human adenosine receptor genes and their regulation - a topic that has not been extensively addressed. Our review emphasizes the importance of (i) better characterizing the genetics of adenosine receptor genes and (ii) understanding how these genes are regulated.